Sometimes, writers find it hard to stick at their craft.
Writing isn’t a 9-5 job where you can just switch off at the end of the day and stop thinking about it. And it’s not a problem that can be solved in a few hours and then put to one side as you face something new.
No, writers have their very own way when it comes to working life, and it’s not surprising that it’s sometimes a challenge to stay completely dedicated to something that takes so flippin’ long!
I need motivation to write
That sentence right there is something that we’ve all thought at some point during our novel writing process.
And what you need to remember is this – that’s OK!
Novels take a lot of time, dedication and patience, and it’s only human nature that that’s going to waiver once and a while.
Which leads me nicely onto my first recommendation – step away.
Don’t be afraid to admit to yourself that today might not be the best day of writing for you. And don’t punish yourself for it either. As I’ve already said, you’re taking on a huge task here, it’s natural to need a bit of time away from the keyboard.
Don’t worry about it.
It’ll happen tomorrow, or the day after, or maybe in a week’s time.
What matters is that you DO go back to it in the end.
Because let’s face it, you can’t have a novel if you don’t write one. And I honestly believe this is the biggest downfall of those who could be great authors but never get that book finished.
The dreaded excuses
You’ll know when you’re making too many of these because you won’t have written for about three weeks.
Even if you only manage to get out 100 words, it’s 100 words that you didn’t have before. Think of writing a novel like an artist would when they come to creating a sculpture. You just need to chip away at it until the beauty of it shines through.
What motivates a writer?
The sad truth of this question is that there is no real, solid answer. Writing, for the most part, isn’t something that has an obvious pattern. You’re creating a novel, not baking a cake.
And everyone’s motivation is different.
Some people just love to write and that’s that.
Some people like to use it as their escape.
Perhaps you could even use it to work through some emotions that have been on your mind recently?
Or maybe you want to help someone else through a tough time and use your writing as therapy.
Perhaps you just want a world where you make the rules?
The truth of it is though, if you want it enough, you will write.
And that’s all you need to know, really.
Recipe for Writing Motivation
Having said that, if you find yourself at a loose end when it comes to writing a particular scene, or are wondering where to take your plot next, there are a few things that can help.
One big thing people tend to take for granted is the amount of material that surrounds them every day. Something as simple as a young man sitting on a wall looking troubled could be the exact bit of inspiration you need to help you introduce a new character and get into their mind set.
Even a passing conversation can inspire the entire plot of a story if you choose to listen.
And if you go to work in a job you don’t like everyday, use that as experience too. Pay attention to the people around you and try and figure out why they do what they do. You’ll find creating fully functional characters that are well-rounded and believable much easier if you have a clear understanding of the human mind.
So the next time you don’t feel motivated, take a look at this blog and do what feels right for you. Trust your gut, and the novel will work itself out.
What do you do to motivate yourself to write? I’d love to hear from you, so feel free to get involved in the discussion below!
Georgia Rosalie 